MNN - Mother Nature Network

Pennsylvania is without a doubt one of the most beautiful states to live in within the entire U.S. The change from summer to fall leaves the treetops a magnificent variety of golds and reds. The coming of spring (or dethawing process) is the time of year when flowers return from the dead and woodland creatures come out from a long winter's hibernation. But it's the Pennsylvania parks that stand out to me because no matter what time of year you visit a state protected area, there is always beauty to be found. Since I am so fond of the great outdoors, I have had my fair share of visiting many of the parks of PA. Within my travels, though, the park that stands out the most to me is Ricketts Glen State Park, which is about 30 miles north of Bloomsburg.

 

A brief description of the area: Ricketts Glen harbors Glens Natural Area, a national natural landmark. Take the Falls Trail and explore the Glens, which boasts a series of wild, free-flowing waterfalls, each cascading through rock-strewn clefts in this ancient hillside. The 94-foot Ganoga Falls is the highest of 22 named waterfalls. Old growth timber and diverse wildlife add to the scenic area. Ricketts Glen State Park is one of the most scenic areas in Pennsylvania. This large park is comprised of 13,050 acres in Luzerne, Sullivan and Columbia counties. For more info, visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us/stateparks/parks/rickettsglen.aspx.

 

The first time I visited this park, I fell in love with it. The waterfalls strung along the trail are absolutely breathtaking, the surrounding wildlife offers many opportunities for one to get in touch with nature, and all in all, it's a great way to enjoy being outside while getting a good day's exercise in. I wouldn't think twice about suggesting Ricketts Glen to anyone interested in the environment of Pennsylvania, because I know for a fact that they would also share in my personal attachment to the area. The hidden treasures of Pennsylvania are preserved as state protected lands so that everyone can enjoy the beauty of the environment without any threats to their existence(s). It's easy for anyone to find comfort in a visit to a local park, but it's the environmentally savvy that can truly appreciate and respect all that nature has to offer.